Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The canonical house at 10 rue du Général-Meusnier in Tours is a mansion built in the early seventeenth century. This monument, also known as the Hotel de Chanoines, is representative of the civil and religious architecture of the city at this time. Its entrance gate, adorned with a wrought iron imposte with the coat of arms of the chapter of the Church of Tours, is a remarkable architectural element. This portal, framed by pilasters and committed columns, is surmounted by a curved pediment decorated with garlands of leaves and fruits, typical of the emerging baroque style.

The entrance gate, classified as a historic monument by order of 8 July 1946, gives access to an inner courtyard. The site also preserves remains of the Gallo-Roman amphitheatre of Caesarodnum in its basement, recalling the old occupation of the place. The house body, covered in a pavilion, dates from the first half of the 17th century, while the wrought iron gate of the portal tympanum bears the date of 1673. Interior developments, such as a chimney, were made in the last quarter of the 18th century, and berry changes took place in the mid-20th century.

This monument illustrates the architectural and historical evolution of Tours, from Gallo-Roman times to modern transformations. It is a testimony of the life of the canons, members of the chapter of the Church, who played an important role in the religious and social life of the city. The canonical house, although partially modified over the centuries, retains original elements that make it a valuable heritage for understanding local history.

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